Belief is with them mechanical, voluntary: they believe…
“Belief is with them mechanical, voluntary: they believe what they are paid for - they swear to that which turns to account. Do you suppose, that after years spent in this manner, they have any feeling left answering to the difference between truth and falsehood?”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
People often accept ideas that align with their financial interests, blurring truth and falsehood.
In simple terms: Money can distort belief and moral clarity.
Key Takeaway
Question motives behind beliefs.
Themes
corruption
morality
truth
Mood
skeptical
reflective
Type
critical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- politics
- business negotiations
- media consumption
Key Concepts
Cognitive bias
ethical relativism
Questions to Reflect On
- How does compensation affect your honesty?
- Can you separate profit from principle?
A Different Perspective
Beliefs may be rationalized despite evidence.